Manchester Wellness Center memberships now free for some seniors!
Some of the equipment at the Manchester Wellness Center. Mirror file photo.
by Sara Swanson
The Manchester Wellness Center began 13 years ago in the unassuming brick building behind Riverside Intermediate School at 710 E Main, off the rear parking lot. It welcomes all ages and ability levels with the goal of making health and wellness accessible, friendly, and sustainable for everyone; from people who are just starting their fitness journey to those who have been active for years. They offer a mix of cardio and strength equipment, space for stretching and mobility work, and a variety of group fitness options. Now, through the Silver Sneakers program, membership is free for some seniors through their Medicare plans.
Because the Wellness Center is closely connected with the school district, the Center also plays a role in supporting student and family wellness, hosting programs and activities that encourage healthy lifestyles across generations. Shannon Cajic, Chief Financial Officer of Manchester Community Schools stated, “Members will see a real cross-section of the community: older adults, working professionals, retirees, students, and families all sharing the same space and cheering each other on.”
Manchester Wellness Center member, Andy Supers stated, “I love the facility and think it’s just a great resource for our small community, wall-to-wall top notch equipment. And the best part is that the Center participates in the Silver Sneakers Program which is funded through my Medicare so I have no membership fee. I’ve just been thinking more seniors should know about this.”
SilverSneakers is a national fitness benefit that is included with many Medicare Advantage and some Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. To check to see if your Medicare plan includes Silver Sneakers, visit https://tools.silversneakers.com/ or call the customer service number on the back of your Medicare Advantage or Medigap insurance card and ask if your plan includes SilverSneakers.
Cajic stated, “If they do qualify, they’ll receive (or can generate online) a SilverSneakers ID number. They simply bring that ID to the Wellness Center, and we’ll get them set up with their membership and give them a brief orientation so they feel comfortable using the facility.” She added that stopping by the Manchester Wellness Center or calling and asking about the Silver Sneakers Program is also an option, and that they’re always happy to help.
The Wellness Center offers monthly and annual memberships and has a variety of discounts, including for couples, families, students, school employees, the military, corporate workers, essential workers, and seniors. It also offers non-member day, week, and month guest passes. Seniors who do not qualify for free membership can join for $33/month as an individual or $54/month as a couple.
Manchester Wellness Center director Kimmy Bozik stated that although they also promote health and wellness for youth, 12 and older, it is a very welcoming atmosphere for older adults. Cajic added that they very intentionally make the atmosphere at the center non-intimidating but instead, warm, down-to-earth, and community-oriented.
Cajic explained that seniors who join will in fact find that many of the center’s members are older adults who are returning to exercise after some time away, managing health conditions with the support of movement, and looking for social connection as much as physical activity. She stated, “You’ll see people working at their own pace, chatting between sets, and encouraging each other. Our staff understand that starting (or restarting) exercise can feel intimidating, especially later in life, and they take time to answer questions, demonstrate equipment, and help members feel safe and confident… Older adults won’t feel like they’re walking into a ‘bodybuilder gym’, it’s much more of a friendly neighborhood space.”
If you have questions or would like to sign up, call 734-428-9960 or stop in during their open hours, Monday through Friday, 6am to 1pm and 3pm to 7:30pm, and Saturday, 7am to noon.
11-24-25 Editors note: This article was updated with more details.
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